Health Matters: Nurses make everything better

Every year, National Nurses Week focuses attention on the diverse ways America’s 3.1 million registered nurses work to save lives and improve the health of millions. National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 through May 12, in observance of the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing.

Every year, National Nurses Week focuses attention on the diverse ways America’s 3.1 million registered nurses work to save lives and improve the health of millions. National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 through May 12, in observance of the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing.

The American Nurses Association supports and encourages National Nurses Week. The ANA is a full-service professional organization representing the nation’s entire registered nurse population that has supported the nursing profession since 1896. The ANA selected “Delivering Quality and Innovation in Patient Care” as the theme for 2013.

Traditionally, National Nurses Week is devoted to highlighting the diverse ways in which registered nurses, who comprise the largest health care profession, are working to improve health care. From bedside nursing in hospitals and long-term facilities to the halls of research institutions and nurses devoted to home care, the depth and breadth of the nursing profession is meeting the expanding health care needs of American society.

An article by Charles Tiffin, Ph D., appeared in the Huffington Post on April 24. It explored the rapidly evolving role of today’s nurses as they are expected to deal with wide range of health care responsibilities. The graying of America plus growing rates of diabetes, obesity, and other conditions means the health care system is handling an increasing number of complex illnesses. “Today’s nurses aren’t just caring for the sick; they’re changing our very notion of modern medicine and health care delivery. New health care technology is also creating opportunities for nurses. More and more aspects of the profession are electronic. New technology won’t preclude traditional care, but it will open up more creative options to teach patients about their health in a very personalized way.”

“Now more than ever,” according to the ANA Web site, “the nursing profession plays an essential role in improving patient outcomes, increasing access, coordinating care, and reducing health care costs.” That is why the Affordable Care Act and the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) Future of Nursing report place nurses at the center of health care transformation in the United States.

The public wants leaders they can trust — and nurses consistently rank as the most trusted profession. Last year, the annual Gallup poll ranked professionals for their honesty and ethical standards, Americans again voted nurses the most trusted profession in America; a title earned for the 13th time in 14 years.

The ANA recognizes the value of nurses: “Each and every day nurses care for patients and communities, making a positive difference in the lives of many. These compassionate and competent nurses are a credit to the field of health care and their efforts deserve recognition.”

The ANA’s Kansas State Nurses Association has developed The Nightingale Tribute for any registered nurse or licensed practical nurse to be used in remembering them at their funeral for years of service. I would like to revise the tribute to the present and share it with you.

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“When a calming, quiet presence is all that’s needed, a nurse is there. In the excitement and miracle of birth or in the mystery and loss of life, a nurse is there. When a silent glance can uplift a patient, family member, or friend, a nurse is there. At those times when the unexplainable needs to be explained, a nurse is there. When the situation demands a swift foot and sharp mind, a nurse is there. When a gentle touch, a firm push, or an encouraging word is needed, a nurse is there. To witness humanity – its beauty in good times and bad, without judgment, a nurse is there. To embrace the woes of the world, willingly, and offer hope, a nurse is there.”

In preparation for this column, I found some inspirational quotations about nurses online. These were especially impactful for me:

“The door that nobody else will go in seems always to swing open widely for me.” – Clara Barton.

“Caring is the essence of nursing.” – Jean Watson

“Our job as nurses is to cushion the sorrow and celebrate the joy, everyday, while we are just ‘doing our jobs.’” – Christine Belle

“Nursing is not just an ART, it has a heART. Nursing is not just a SCIENCE, it has a conSCIENCE.” – Unknown

“They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou.

As someone who has been in health care for 20 years, it has been my experience that we are fortunate to have so many dedicated nurses in our communities. They are often the first to “catch things,” particularly in the hospital setting. A nurse’s career is constantly changing. Nurses can’t just go to school and be done. Their education is continuing; their profession requires enormous responsibility. In addition, nursing is demanding, both physically and mentally.

I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the very important and challenging contribution of nurses who work in the home-care arena. In addition to registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, many certified nursing assistants are playing a vital role in the health care system and patients’ lives. With a smile on their faces, these nurses all help run the show 24/7. Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and for making everything better.

Carolyn Sluiter is president of Freeport Home Medical Equipment located at 307 W. Main St. in downtown Freeport. For more information, call 815-297-0504 or visit freeporthomemedical.com.